If you are traveling to Uganda for the first time, you may be hard-pressed to decide which places are best to explore. To settle your dilemma, we have compiled a list of the most beautiful places to visit in Uganda.
1. Murchison Falls
Whether you visit by boat cruise on the Victoria Nile or a safari tour, you don’t want to miss Murchison Falls in northwest Uganda.
Here, you can witness enormous waters bursting through a narrow gorge before crashing in powerful, roaring cascades. While you are visiting this breathtaking sight, you may also want to explore the surrounding protected area that makes up Murchison Falls Conservative Area to spot some of Africa’s icons such as African lions, elephants, leopards, giraffes, buffalo and more.
2. Lake Victoria
If you really want to experience the heart of Uganda, the story begins with Lake Victoria, which is the birthplace of the Nile River.
Not only is it Africa’s largest lake and the world’s largest tropical lake, but Lake Victoria also boasts one of the world’s largest ecosystems.
There is so much natural beauty and wildlife to see here – from scenic mountain views to islands, beaches, fishing boats, and various bird and animal species.
3. Jinja, Start of the Nile River
While you are touring Lake Victoria, you may want to check out Jinja, the colonial town that is positioned at the start of the Nile River.
The town is regarded as East Africa’s adrenaline capital, so not only can you view where the world’s longest and most historic river begins, but you can also get your blood pumping with activities like whitewater rafting, mountain-biking, quad-biking, and kayaking.
4. Ssese Islands
A major tourist attraction in Uganda, the Ssese Islands are a group of about 84 islands dotted along the northwestern shores of Lake Victoria. Each island differs in size, shape, and exotic flora and fauna.
Here, you can relax amid beautiful scenery, see chimpanzees, walk on white-sand beaches, enjoy horseback riding and windsurfing, as well as interact with the Bantu people and learn about their culture.
5. Kampala, Capital of Uganda
When visiting places in Uganda, you don’t want to miss checking out the country’s capital city, Kampala. This city is home to a steady expat community and offers plenty of things to see and do.
You can tour beautiful temples, cathedrals, art galleries and museums that include the popular Uganda National Museum. You can also browse various markets for clothing, foods, and crafts. Kampala also offers a good range of restaurants and bars.
6. Bwindi Impenetrable National Park
Breathtaking mountain views, lush landscapes and an abundance of African wildlife are just a few reasons Bwindi Impenetrable National Park is one of the top places to visit in Uganda. Moreover, it is home to some of the world’s last mountain gorillas.
There are many gorilla trekking tours you can join here to suit your level of skill or preference that will allow you to experience the sheer beauty of this place and to see mountain gorillas up close in their natural habitat.
7. Queen Elizabeth National Park
Queen Elizabeth National Park is like a sample platter of Africa. You can try a little of everything African here with diverse habitats and exotic wildlife.
Wetlands, forests and savanna grasslands offer ample opportunities to see the likes of elephants, leopards, hippos, chimpanzees, giraffes, and the tree-climbing lion. There are various safaris, lake cruises, and even hot air balloon tours available here for you to explore this amazing area.
8. Lake Katwe Explosion Crater Drive
If already in Queen Elizabeth National Park, you should consider reserving space on your itinerary for one of Uganda’s most scenic drives, the Explosion Crater Drive.
It takes about 2 ½ hours, but it is well worth the time. Not only will you have the chance to see wildlife like buffalo and elephants, but also magnificent views of natural landmarks like Mountains of the Moon, Crater Lake, the Blue Mountains of the Congo, and Lake Edward.
9. Semuliki National Park
It may be one of Uganda’s newest and smallest national parks, but the Semuliki National Park packs awe-inspiring beauty and plenty of attractions that include its most famous, the Sempaya Hot Springs.
After watching the boiling hot springs blast off into a steamy spray, you can hike through the forest to catch glimpses of its many bird species and exotic animals such as flying squirrels, red-tailed monkeys, pygmy antelope, and the endangered shoebill stork.
10. Lake Bunyonyi
The locals call it “place of many birds,” but many tourists call it paradise. With its 29 islands, terraced hillsides, charming shore towns, and attractive resorts, it is no wonder that Lake Bunyonyi allures people from all over the world.
Many safari tourists choose Lake Bunyonyi as a base because the lovely setting is relaxing and peaceful. Additionally, the lake offers water sports and birdwatching while the nearby towns provide colorful markets and cultural experiences with the local villagers.
